Golden State Warriors poised for trade action as Jonathan Kuminga leads potential moves
The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for a significant shake-up ahead of the February 5 trade deadline. While speculation surrounds various players on the roster, it’s clear that at least one trade will be executed, and the focus centers on who will be on the move. Below is a ranking of players from least likely to most likely to be traded, encompassing all 15 individuals on standard contracts, as well as Pat Spencer.
Restricted from Trade: Seth Curry
Seth Curry finds himself in a unique position; his late-season contract signing means that he cannot be dealt until after the trade deadline. This restriction effectively removes him from any immediate trade discussions.
Off Limits: Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry stands as a pillar of the Warriors franchise and remains untouchable in trade talks. Even if the team faces a string of losses and injuries, the prospect of trading Curry is virtually nonexistent unless he himself demands it. His status as one of the most beloved athletes in the Bay Area further cements his position.
Surprising Trades Unlikely: Spencer, Richard, Post, Melton
The next tier includes players like Pat Spencer, Will Richard, Quinten Post, and De’Anthony Melton. Spencer is currently on a two-way contract, making any trade involving him more of a logistical maneuver than a salary-dumping exercise. Both Richard and Post are seen as valuable pieces, with their low salaries making them less likely to be involved in trades. Melton, however, is slightly more likely to be considered for a deal due to his larger salary and impending free agency.
Not Out of the Question: Butler, Green
The Warriors are not actively looking to trade high-profile players like Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, but unforeseen circumstances could push them to reconsider. Butler’s hefty $54.1 million salary makes him a complicated asset unless a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo is involved. Green, on the other hand, has had a challenging season offensively, raising questions about his future with the team. Still, his strong relationships with ownership and management suggest he would only be traded under dire circumstances.
Implicit No-Trade Clause: Gary Payton II
Gary Payton II holds an implicit no-trade clause, giving him the power to veto any potential move. This complicates the Warriors’ plans, especially since he has become less essential to the roster with Melton’s return to health. If not for this clause, Payton would likely be a prime candidate for trade discussions.
Salary-Matching Throw-Ins: Santos, Jackson-Davis
As the Warriors explore trade options, they may need to include lower-salary players like Gui Santos or Trayce Jackson-Davis to facilitate deals. Santos carries more value, which might make him a target for rival teams. However, Jackson-Davis could be viewed as the more expendable asset.
Top Trade Candidates
5. Brandin Podziemski
Brandin Podziemski, with a salary of $3.7 million this season, is too valuable to be considered merely a throw-in. His recent performance, including shooting 44 percent from beyond the arc over the last ten games and becoming the team’s third-leading scorer, makes him a player the Warriors will be cautious to part with. Any trade involving Podziemski would likely need to bring back a significant player.
4. Al Horford
Al Horford’s struggles this season have diminished his trade value. Nevertheless, his experience could appeal to a contending team looking for depth at the center position. The Warriors might leverage his $5.7 million salary as part of a larger trade, allowing the acquiring team to reroute him for additional assets.
3. Moses Moody
In an ideal scenario, the Warriors would look to acquire two impactful players—one dynamic wing and a center to complement Quinten Post. Moses Moody, currently in the first year of a three-year, $37.5 million contract, could be a central figure in such trades. His ability to shoot effectively positions him as an attractive option for teams in rebuilding phases.
2. Buddy Hield
Reports indicate the Warriors are actively exploring the market for Buddy Hield. With a $9.2 million salary that aligns well for salary matching, he presents a viable option for potential deals. Additionally, his contract structure, which includes only $3 million guaranteed for the 2026-2027 season, could be appealing to teams looking to free up cap space.
1. Jonathan Kuminga
Jonathan Kuminga emerges as the Warriors’ most intriguing trade prospect, combining the potential for growth with a manageable contract. His salary of $22.5 million this season, along with a team option for $24.3 million next season, allows an acquiring team to evaluate his performance before committing financially. The Warriors face a pivotal decision: can they leverage Kuminga and potentially draft capital to secure a substantial upgrade, or will the trade market dictate a more modest return? Answers may become clearer once Kuminga becomes eligible for trade on January 15.
